Monday, October 27, 2008

Andrew Morgan's home textile line combines modern styles with a fashion forward sensibility (he was once the ready-to-wear Design Director for Burberry). HIs throws and pillows are super soft, and every piece is manufactured in the United States. I LOVE the herringbone design, because I think it combines masculine and feminine qualities. Guys, there's no florals or pretty pink colors! Girls, it's neutral in color but definitely not boring in pattern.

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

A lot of people get anxiety about house warming gifts. Usually the nervousness stems from the fact that customers worry they will end up buying a gift that won't match the recipient's new space..I would have to say that I have about a 90% "batting average" of knowing when a customer is looking for a housewarming gift. (The deer caught in headlights look is a dead giveaway.)

That's when I lead them to these little beauties. These handmade soaps from Australia are packaged in some of the most beautiful papers I have seen. Plus, the fragrances are rich and clean-smelling without being over pungent. They're perfect for a powder room or indulgent for your own bathroom.

Monday, October 20, 2008

I get very excited about satchels these days. I'm not sure if it's the fact that fall is finally in the air, or if I've watched Oliver Twist one too many times on the AMC Channel. But, I OVE these distressed leather numbers that we have in stock. They get really soft and buttery with time and have great detailing at the buckles and straps.

Friday, October 17, 2008

I tend to be fascinated with items that incorporate macabre influences in their design. These bottles, inspired by Victorian Cabinets of Curiosity, are not only functional but definitely serves as a conversation piece as well. -Bottles retail from $60-$70 each depending on size.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

I got a nice write-up in the Brookline Tab this morning. Some good shots of the store (though looking a bit sparse as it was the first week the store was open.) I should also warn there is one really bad picture of me. Please don't snicker too loudly...

I've been busy putting out more vintage goodies as they are selling off quickly. As for modern goods, the big hits seem to be my champagne glasses with painted platinum blossoms on them (so pretty for a wedding gift!), the decoupage globes (which both men and women seem to love equally) and my sweater throws (which seem perfect right now as the weather is getting a bit chillly.)

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Every once and awhile, I will come across a HORRIFYINGLY bad piece of art at an antique mall or Goodwill store. Some pieces are so crazy bad, that I want to take them home to show them off to people. I mean, no one will believe the "dogs in a purple school bus" oil painting that I once spotted in Rhode Island.

The great news is that there is now an entire MUSEUM dedicated to lovingly displaying all the crap-bad art out there. And....for all you Massachusetts residents, it's conveniently located in Dedham!! However, for those of you outside the Boston area, don't feel sorry for yourselves. The Museum of Bad Art (www.museumofbadart.org) actually has a website, and it's worth checking out for some laughs.

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Whenever I read the design blogs, they are always talking about the "next" animal that designers are featuring in their work. First it was owls, than deers, squirrels....I think we're onto elephants now??

Birds probably came and went a few seasons ago, but I still can't get enough of these fantastic birdhouses from Tamar Morgendorff. Each one is hand-made by Tamar using one-of-a-kind antique embroidery and vintage fabrics. I think they would look perfect in a nursery or children's room. But, if you are a huge bird fan like myself, you probably wouldn't have much of a problem finding a place for it anywhere in your home.

Friday, October 3, 2008

Based on a WWII British Propaganda poster, the message of these totes still rings true today--especially with our current economic climate. So screw the "recession" and buy yourself a fun little tote. They're $20 and can be shipped anywhere in the U.S.

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

We are up and RUNNING-- literally. The past two months has been a non-stop, crazy adventure in "Retail Start-ups 101".

Today is the GRAND OPENING of the boutique, and I'm very excited to announce that we've already received a few press hits. The Boston Globe picked us up today and featured my favorite Laura Zindel bottles in the piece. Daily Candy Boston also ran a lovely article about the store today.

It's been great to begin meeting the locals in the neighborhood. Everyone has given me a lot of positive feedback. If you are in the area, please drop by and introduce yourself. In the meantime, here a few quick shots that I have taken of the store.